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United States | Midwest | Ohio >> Videos: Passo Gavia ascent from Bormio and full descent to Ponte di Legno

The Col Collective: Passo Gavia ascent from Bormio and full descent to Ponte di Legno

 

Passo Gavia Ascent from Bormio

Steeped in Italian cycling history the Passo Gavia is one of the most feared and famous climbs in the Giro d’Italia, first used in 1960 and regularly stirring up it’s snowy mischief ever since. I got to sample that first-hand back in the (so called) summer of 2009 as I grovelled up its slopes from Bormio during an event called The Race Across The Alps, one of my first forays into the world of endurance road cycling. The fact that the day before was idilic and yet just a handful of hours later it was worse than mid-winter is testament to the Gavia’s prowess at being able to throw a tantrum at a moment’s notice. So why do I find myself returning so often? Its unpredictability is all part of the draw and if you catch it on a good day I can guarantee the memory of its rugged landscape, unique challenge and the natural beauty of the Lago Bianco (white lake) at the summit will soothe your soul forever. Without question a truly inspirational mountain.  


Start: Bormio
Length: 25.6km
Summit: 2,621m
Valley: 1,217m
Elevation: 1,404m
Max gradient: 11%


Passo Gavia Descent to Ponte di Legno

The summit of the Passo Gavia holds some of the most spectacular mountain views you'll ever see. To the north the snow-capped 3,678 metre Punta San Matteo and the Ortler group stand proud, the south is guarded by the Adamello-Presanella alpine range while the 3,223 metre Monte Gavia watches over all that pass.

 
 
Passo Gavia ascent from Bormio and full descent to Ponte di Legno